Many travel enthusiasts look forward to their vacations weeks or months in advance, and for good reason, as this is a great chance to escape daily life’s hustle and bustle and discover new places and cultures. However, not everything about travelling is fun – the flight, for instance, can be a tedious and uncomfortable part, and it can sometimes even cause anxiety or a lot of stress. The good news is that it’s possible to have an enjoyable flying experience with some preparation. If you are a first-time traveller and you feel stressed at the thought of flying, keep reading as we dive into the best 6 tips on calming your nerves when boarding the plane.
Start planning the trip early
Planning is the number one tip when it comes to ensuring a smooth flight experience, and this includes booking your flight as early as possible to ensure you secure favourable deals and get to choose your seat. If you book your flight a few weeks before departure, you will likely come across sky-high ticket prices! (And who wants that!?)
Besides, leaving things at the last minute is more stressful, so as tedious as it may seem to plan in advance, it will benefit you in many ways. So, try to organise things in advance, so you can avoid wasting money, time and energy, as well as setbacks during the trip. Book accommodation early and be sure to check the weather conditions of the destination of your choice and pack accordingly to guarantee comfort during the flying experience and when you land.
Choose a direct flight
When planning for the trip, be sure to choose a direct flight because it’s a lot more convenient, ensuring you won’t have to worry about catching another flight. It’s an option that will save you time and reduce errors you could make when navigating the layover airport.
There’s, however, a downside, when it comes to direct flights: they tend to be more costly. But if you think about it, it’s worth the cost if you’re looking for convenience. In some instances, direct flights may not be an option, and when that happens, it’s best to choose an itinerary that includes the fewest possible flights.
Arrive early at the airport
On the day of your flight, we recommend arriving early at the airport – preferably two hours in advance. Why? Because when it comes to air travel, it’s always better to expect the unexpected. Since you have to check in, clear security, and find your gate, it’s best to ensure you have extra time instead of rushing and feeling stressed. Arriving early at the airport is even more important if you plan to leave your car there and you’ll fly from a busy airport such as Manchester. It can get really crowded, and finding a Manchester airport parking spot could take a long time. In fact, it’s best to secure a spot beforehand to get peace of mind and pay less money than you would directly at the airport. Take the time to compare different airport parking options to ensure you book a reliable lot without spending a fortune on it ( after all, there’s no point in spending a lot of money on a parking spot when you can save it for the trip itself!)
Parkos is a reliable website to this end, aiming to provide everyone with safe and cheap parking options to ensure that travellers will have a seamless experience that will exceed their expectations. We know it may seem stressful to figure out this aspect when planning the trip, but trust us, rushing through the airport is much more stressful and could cause your journey to start on the wrong foot!
Bring entertainment
The reality is that long flights can be pretty boring, so be sure to load your electronic devices with TV shows and movies or consider downloading an audiobook or bringing your favourite book with you. Another excellent idea is to spend time reading about the destination you will explore – a travel guidebook will introduce you to the destination’s history and provide recommendations on the best tourist spots.
While airlines do offer in-flight entertainment systems, they aren’t always available, nor are they free. So, it’s best to equip yourself with enough options to help you pass the time and make your flight much more fun.
Stay comfortable during the flight
When looking for a smooth flying experience, comfort is key. Be sure to dress in comfortable layers and wear shoes that you can easily put on and off ( you will need to do so during the security check), pack noise-cancelling headphones to drown the sounds in the plane, and if you plan to get a little sleep while on the plane, consider bringing a neck pillow and an eye mask as well, as they will make it easier to get some rest.
Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated! Aeroplane cabins can be uncomfortable and dry, so remember to drink enough water and avoid mild dizziness, tiredness, headaches or a general unwell feeling. This way, you will arrive at the destination of your dreams feeling fresh and ready to explore its attractions!
Pack the essentials in your carry-on
No one wants to think of it, but the truth is that there’s always a possibility for your checked bags to get delayed or even lost. So, it’s best to pack all your essentials in your carry-on, such as medical supplies and prescription medications, a change of clothes, your phone charger, and the paperwork that you will need for security and to get into the hotel.
Keep in mind that you aren’t allowed to pack anything in a carry-on, so check the rules beforehand to ensure you will have with you everything you cannot do without.
The bottom line
Flying for the first time may be anxiety-inducing, but these strategies will make the experience more enjoyable. Remember to plan ahead, ensure you have plenty of time to navigate the airport, and stay comfortable and entertained while on the plane. Once you’re prepared, there’s nothing to worry about! Happy travels!
